Gay Abandon
Gay Abandon is West Yorkshire’s LGBT+ choir, singing with spirit, joy, pride, and – yes – gay abandon! As a diverse range of voices, we blend harmony and heart, creating a welcoming space where music builds friendships and community shines on every stage on which we sing.
Since 1997, Gay Abandon has connected people in West Yorkshire through music and community. Led by Ian Akroyd, we sing a varied repertoire—from pop to choral—in rich four-part harmony. We’ve performed at festivals across Europe and the UK, sharing stages with artists such as Lulu, Will Young, and Alison Moyet. Though we love big moments, our favourite gigs are local ones where friendships grow and the joy of singing shines. Our name reflects our spirit: open-hearted, joyful, and authentic. More than a choir, we’re a space to connect, build confidence, and find community.
Attending Various Voices means the world to Gay Abandon – and we’ve proudly taken part in every festival to date. It’s a joyful celebration of queer choral music, where we connect with singers from across Europe and beyond, visit beautiful cities, and share in a powerful sense of community. For us, it’s more than just performing – it’s about building long-term friendships, feeling part of an international LGBTQ+ family, and standing together in harmony, pride, and solidarity.